FIGHT LIKE A GIRL - A MILLION WOMAN MARCH (3.13.14)

After my trip to San Fran yesterday, I feel compelled to tell you a story today.  I promise that I will be back soon with a curriculum-related post and a freebie that will be oh so useful.  However, today I am going to reveal a little painful piece about me.  I am pretty open about most things in my life, but this is one that I wear close to my heart and have trouble sharing unless specifically asked. My goal in doing this is NOT for pity, but to raise awareness, talk about an amazing event, and possibly generate bonds with others who share my secret.  

For those of you who don't know what endometriosis is, here is the quick 4-1-1. Endometriosis is a fairly common disorder which can cause disabling pelvic pain (during your period or throughout the entire month), infertility, and countless other symptoms - CLICK HERE to read more.  It's estimated that more than 175,000,000 women and girls from around the world have endometriosis. 

I know that I have spoken to so many women in our own teacher bloggy world who also have this disease . . . it blows my mind.  They all have such painful stories to share.  Although I wouldn't wish this on anyone, there is comfort in knowing that you are not alone.   

I was diagnosed with Stage 5 endo in 2009 and have had multiple surgeries to try and rid my body of the disease.  Unfortunately, I am just one of those women who produces the infected cells like crazy.  It continues to plague me on a daily basis and it has put a serious damper on my aspirations to become a mother in the near future.  Thankfully, I have the most amazing doctor in my life.  Dr. Camran Nezhat is one of the leading specialists in the area of endometriosis (the leading in my book) and operates the Center for Special Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery at Stanford Hospital and Clinics in Palo Alto, CA.  He has helped so many woman and girls during his tenure as an expert surgeon - many of which no longer suffer from symptoms.   

During my appointment with him yesterday (he actually popped over to his office between surgeries to meet with me personally . . . this doctor is truly one of a kind), I found out about an amazing event he and his family have put together. The Million Woman March for Endometriosis is a worldwide mass demonstration that will take place in dozens of international capitals during next year's Endometriosis Awareness Month.  On Thursday, March 13, 2014 women are invited to meet at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to march together in an effort to raise awareness (click on the event link above to see other locations).  I am really hoping to attend this amazing event . . . just gotta start working on the principal/super now ;)  I wanted to throw it out there well in advance to all you alls . . . maybe you are interested in marching too??  

Before I "close the door" on today's post, I do want to make an offer.  If you suffer from endometriosis or suspect that you do, I am here to listen and/or answer any questions that you may have (kelleydolling@gmail.com).  Endo can make you feel like your overreacting, that it's all in your head, or that you aren't being "tough" enough.  Well, you are NOT {insert put down here}.  I promise. It is a horrible thing to have to deal with and from one woman to another . . . there is hope.  I still believe it.  

Alright, that's it for me today.  I am off to work on a new pack before hitting up the salon.  Thanks for sticking with me today.  I know this was a pretty personal post.  Hugs y'all.